One-Pot Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta

Love creamy pasta dishes but hate the clean-up that comes with it? This One-Pot Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta is the perfect solution! Quick, easy, and full of flavor, this dish will have your taste buds singing.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz fettuccine
• 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into strips
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

• In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant.
• Add chicken strips and cook until no longer pink.
• Stir in chicken broth, heavy cream, parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
• Add fettuccine and bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally until pasta is cooked.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Nutrition Information:

• Calories: 540
• Fat: 27g
• Carbohydrates: 41g
• Protein: 31g

Popular Questions:

• Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, just adjust cooking time accordingly.

• Can I substitute heavy cream with milk?

While it won’t be as rich, you can substitute heavy cream with milk for a lighter version.

• How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, feel free to add vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers for extra flavor.

• Is this dish gluten-free?

No, fettuccine contains gluten. You can use gluten-free pasta as a substitute.

• How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

• Is it possible to make this dish spicy?

You can add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.

• Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken and add it towards the end of cooking.

• How can I reduce the calories in this dish?

You can use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of parmesan cheese.

• Can I freeze this dish?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Helpful Tips:

• For extra tanginess, add more lemon juice and zest.
• Try adding a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, comforting flavor.
• Garnish with lemon slices for a decorative touch.
• Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
• Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
• Experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme for variety.
• Don’t overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the sauce.
• Adjust the salt and pepper to suit your taste preferences.
• Make this dish ahead of time and reheat gently for a quick meal.
• Feel free to add cooked bacon or shrimp for added protein.

Expert Secrets:

• Cook the pasta al dente for the best texture.
• Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for a bright and zesty taste.
• Let the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Don’t skimp on the parmesan cheese – it adds richness to the dish.
• Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper before cooking for flavor.
• Add a splash of white wine for a sophisticated flavor profile.
• Try using Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a healthier alternative.
• Toast pine nuts and sprinkle them over the pasta for a crunchy texture.
• Experiment with different types of pasta shapes for a fun twist on the dish.
• Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil before serving for an extra layer of flavor.